Cats' Jealousy: How They Compete for Affection!

Section 1: When Do Cats Feel Jealous?

When significant changes occur in the household, such as the arrival of a new person or pet, or when a cat feels out of control of its environment, it can become restless and exhibit signs of jealousy. This is because the cat senses its position at home is being challenged.

Therefore, when an additional person or pet joins the household, the existing cat may feel stressed and may even launch aggressive attacks on the intruder, trying to assert its dominance and establish a new sense of security. Cats are particularly prone to jealousy when they feel their status or territory is threatened. However, unlike dogs, cats are not great at expressing their emotions, so when they are jealous, they often display the following behaviors:

Disapproving Stares If a cat suddenly gives you a fierce glare, it's a clear sign that it's feeling jealous or unhappy.

Retreating to Solitude Cats have expressive faces, and when they are jealous, they often sit quietly by themselves, looking pitiful.

Loss of Appetite and Possible Illness Jealousy can lead to a loss of appetite in cats, and in some cases, it may even cause illness. Cats may stop eating to get their owner's attention, so it's important to reassure them and show that you value them. This can encourage them to start eating again. However, if the cat falls ill, immediate action should be taken to treat the condition.

Aggressive Behavior and FluffedUp Fur In severe cases of jealousy, cats may become very aggressive, even attacking their owner, and their fur may stand on end.

The above are common signs of jealousy in cats, and these behaviors can vary depending on the cat's personality.

Section 2: How to Handle a Jealous Cat

Cats become jealous for a reason; they don't lose their sense of security without cause. The best way to eliminate jealousy is to address the root cause. Many pet owners mistakenly focus more attention on a new pet, which can exacerbate the jealousy of the existing cat. It's crucial to provide equal care to all pets and give the original cat enough attention and time to adjust to the new situation. With careful care and time, cats can gradually accept the changes and stop acting jealous.

Pet Doctor Oxygen Tips: In the eyes of a cat, it deserves special attention and priority. Therefore, pet owners should be mindful of this during the care process to minimize instances of jealousy in cats.